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Pretty Girls Make Graves originated in Seattle, Washington, United States of America, formed in 2001 by vocalist Andrea Zollo, bassist Derek Fudesco, guitarist J. Clark, drummer Nick Dewitt, and later guitarist Nathan Thelen; the group was named after The Smiths’ song referencing a Jack Kerouac quote. Their breakthrough came with the 2001 Pretty Girls Make Graves EP released through Dim Mak and Sound Virus, followed by the single "Pyrite Pedestal" in 2006. In chronological order, the band issued Good Health in 2002 on Lookout Records, The New Romance in 2003 and Élan Vital in 2006 through Matador Records, the latter featuring the track "All Medicated Geniuses". Touring highlights included a 2004 appearance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. In 2004, Nathan Thelen departed, replaced by multi‑instrumentalist Leona Marrs, and the band signed to Matador, achieving critical attention. The group announced its split on 29 January 2007, playing final shows in Seattle that June. Post‑breakup, members pursued projects such as Jaguar Love, The Cave Singers, and Dutch Dub. In November 2023, the band re‑assembled for the 2024 When We Were Young festival, performing The New Romance in full, and scheduled a headlining September show at The Showbox in Seattle. The band’s legacy remains within the early 2000s post‑hardcore scene, with continued interest in their catalog and reunion performances.
